Settat, Morocco
The Gateway to the South · Chaouia Plains & Modern Energy
Location & Vibe
Situated 70 km south of Casablanca, at the crossroads between the economic capital and Marrakech. A modern agricultural city with a relaxed pace.
Olive Capital
Settat is the center of Morocco's olive oil production, surrounded by endless olive groves.
Oued Mellah Dam
A spectacular reservoir and recreational area, one of the oldest dams in Morocco.
🌾 The Heart of Chaouia · Agriculture & History
Settat's history is deeply connected to the fertile Chaouia plain, one of Morocco's most important agricultural regions. The city grew around the mausoleum of Sidi Bouazza, a local saint, and became a major market town for the surrounding farming communities. During the French protectorate, Settat developed as an administrative and commercial center. Today, it's a dynamic city known for its olive oil, grains, and as the home of Hassan First University.
🫒 Olive Groves & Agriculture
Settat is the olive capital of the Chaouia region. The surrounding plains are covered with endless olive groves, producing some of Morocco's finest olive oil. The city's olive souk is a must-visit, with dozens of varieties of table olives and freshly pressed oil. The region also produces cereals, sunflowers, and legumes.
💧 Oued Mellah Dam
Located 20 km north of Settat, the Oued Mellah Dam is one of the oldest dams in Morocco, built in 1930. The reservoir is surrounded by forested hills and is a popular spot for picnics, fishing, and bird watching. The dam provides water for irrigation and drinking to the surrounding region.
🕌 Mausoleum of Sidi Bouazza
The mausoleum of Sidi Bouazza is the spiritual heart of Settat. This local saint is venerated throughout the Chaouia region, and his mausoleum is a pilgrimage site, especially during the annual moussem (religious festival). The surrounding neighborhood has a traditional, village-like atmosphere.
🛍️ Souk of Settat
The souk is the vibrant heart of the city, especially lively on Sundays when farmers from the surrounding countryside bring their produce to market. It's an authentic Moroccan experience with sections for fresh produce, livestock, spices, textiles, and crafts. The atmosphere is friendly and untouristed.
🎓 Hassan First University
Founded in 1997, Hassan First University has brought new energy to Settat, attracting students from across Morocco. The modern campus and student population have added a youthful, dynamic feel to the city, with new cafes, bookshops, and cultural events.
🍽️ Gastronomy · Chaouia Flavors
Settat's cuisine reflects its agricultural heritage. Don't miss: fresh olive oil (some of Morocco's best), tagine with olives and preserved lemons, couscous with seasonal vegetables, brochettes (grilled meats), msemmen (traditional pancake), and the famous mint tea.
🗺️ Explore Settat — Map
📍 Settat city center – from the souk to the university
✨ Settat Insights & Fun Facts
- 🫒 Olive capital of the Chaouia region
- 💧 Oued Mellah is one of Morocco's oldest dams (1930)
- 🌾 Located in the fertile Chaouia plain
- 🎓 Home to Hassan First University (30,000+ students)
- 🕌 Pilgrimage site for Sidi Bouazza
- 🛍️ Famous for its Sunday souk
✈️ Travel Tips
Best Time
Spring (Mar-May) and autumn (Sep-Nov) offer pleasant weather. Summers can be hot (35-40°C), winters mild.
Getting Around
Train connections to Casablanca (45 min) and Marrakech (1.5 hours). Petit taxis and buses within the city.
Accommodation
Hotels in the city center, guesthouses near the souk, and rural lodges outside the city.
🌟 Local Wisdom: Settat is off the tourist trail — you'll experience authentic Moroccan daily life. The Sunday souk is a feast for the senses. Don't leave without buying local olive oil. Learn a few Darija words: "Salam" (hello), "Shukran" (thank you). The Oued Mellah dam is beautiful at sunset.
🇲🇦 Settat — Where the plains meet the sky, and olive oil flows like gold.